Electricity, Water & Heating: Who Pays in Denmark - Tenant
Utilities & statements (heat, water, electricity; on-account vs flat)
3 min read
·
published September 11, 2025
As a tenant in Denmark, it can be unclear who must pay for electricity, water and heating in a rental property. This guide explains the difference between a conto payments and fixed charges, which expenses tenants are typically asked to cover, and when costs should be included in the rent or billed separately. We also cover practical steps to check accounts, document consumption, and how to complain to the rent tribunal or seek help if charges seem unreasonable. The language is accessible, and the aim is to give you as a tenant in Denmark concrete rights and actions so you avoid surprises and can act promptly.
When does the tenant pay?
In general, it depends on the tenancy agreement and how expenses are specified. If heating, hot water or electricity are explicitly included in the rent, these are paid as part of the rent. If costs are billed separately, the landlord may require a conto payments or charge fixed amounts. Always check your written tenancy agreement and accounts for shared expenses. Also see the rules in the Tenancy Act for duties and rights[1].
Difference: a conto vs fixed charges
- A conto payment (payment): Prepayment based on an estimate of consumption, later settled against actual consumption.
- Fixed charges (fee): A fixed amount per month or quarter that does not change with consumption until next agreement or adjustment.
- Accounts and documentation: After an accounting year, the landlord must show meter readings or allocation keys and document the settlement.
Detailed documentation increases your chances in a dispute.
Accounts and settlement requirements
The landlord must be able to present a clear account of consumption and settlement. As a tenant you have the right to access the basis for the settlement, meter readings and any allocation keys. Always keep documentation such as receipts, emails and photos of meters. If you believe the settlement is incorrect or unreasonable, you can complain to the local rent tribunal or get legal advice[2].
Respond to letters and deadlines quickly to preserve your rights.
Things to check
- That meter readings are correct and time-stamped.
- That a conto payments have been settled against actual consumption.
- That shared installations are maintained and do not cause unreasonably high consumption.
How to
- Gather documentation: keep meter readings, receipts and correspondence.
- Request accounts in writing from the landlord and note the date of your request.
- Observe deadlines: respond within stated deadlines if the landlord issues a claim.
- Contact the rent tribunal or seek advice if you do not get a response or disagree with the account.
Keep both digital and physical copies of all correspondence.
Frequently asked questions
- Do I pay the heating bill if heating is included in the rent?
- If heating is explicitly included in the rent, it is usually paid by the landlord via the rent. Check your tenancy agreement for details.
- Can the landlord require a conto even with shared meters?
- Yes, the landlord can demand conto payments, but must subsequently document and settle against actual consumption.
- What if I think I have been overcharged?
- First request a detailed written explanation. If you do not receive a satisfactory answer, you can complain to the rent tribunal.[2]
Help and Support / Resources
- Retsinformation: Laws and regulations
- Borger.dk: Guidance for tenants
- Huslejenaevn.dk: Complaint guidance
